Buffalo Killers - 'Ohio Grass'

Play Audio

Cincinnati-based power trio Buffalo Killers have been laying down rootsy Americana rock since 2006. Their latest album is the THC-inspired Ohio Grass.

Originally released on Record Store Day (Apr. 20) as a "Herb Green" vinyl pressing, the EP consisted of six songs, but with the expanded recorded in analog and re-released exactly four months later, the listener now gets to enjoy four bonus cuts (one new studio song along and three smokin' live tracks).

The band is comprised of the Gabbard brothers, Andrew (guitar, vocals) and Zachary (bass/vocals), plus former Thee Shams drummer Joseph Sebaali. In 2007, the Black Crowes invited Buffalo Killers to open for them after Chris Robinson heard the band's self-titled debut album. Once that tour ended, Buffalo Killers hit the studio and recorded their sophomore album Let It Ride with the Black Keys' Dan Auerbach producing. A concert tour with the Black Keys preceded the album's 2008 release.

I would advise having some weed rolled and ready to achieve the full Ohio Grass experience. It will also aid in preparing the mind for the hypnotic reggae vibes of "Golden Eagle," the album's pivotal track (listen above). "Grow Your Own" is reminiscent to GNR's "Sweet Child of Mine"; in fact, Zach sounds like a hippie version of Axl Rose on this high tune. "Some Other Kind" feels like something off The Beatles' Revolver and shows that this trio is more than just a jam band. The first bonus track "Good Feeling" has a surf-rock riff and the lyric, "Stoned chasing my blues away." The three live bonus cuts effectively turn the EP into a LP.

The cover art by Joshua Marc Levy & Asheville Art Family is just a dope as the album, featuring a a freshly-lit joint on the front with cannabis leaves in green, blue, red and yellow scattered throughout the jacket and back cover.

In addition to the newly expanded CD and digital editions, Alive Records will also be re-releasing the original six-song EP on black vinyl, as well as a very limited pressing on marble vinyl.